Having a driveway or road paved is a major investment for both residential and commercial properties. It goes without saying that choosing the right paving contractor is imperative. Today on the Prime Paving & Sealcoating blog we want to help you in this process. Here are five questions to ask your paving contractor before hiring them.
How will this project be completed?
A professional paving contractor should be willing to discuss the entire process with you. Part of investing in something as expensive as paving is educating yourself. Your contractor should be willing to help you in learning about the process. This is also a great opportunity to see if their vision for the completed project lines up with yours.
Prime Paving & Sealcoating has been in business for over 61 years and we are delighted to explain all aspects of a project to our clients. Your success is our success!
How long will it take to complete my paving project?
Any contractor should be able to give you a properly reasoned estimate on how long a project should take. We understand that it can be frustrating to have a hardscaping project take longer than anticipated.
Another good question to ask your potential contractor along these same lines is, “How do you handle delays with jobs?”
If your contractor has been in business for any amount of time they have run into this issue. No one can control the weather so there may be times when it affects projects. Asking your contractor how they handle these delays ensures that they are professional. As well as, it informs you as to how they intend to communicate effectively with you.
What is your best estimate for this paving project?
It is important to make sure you understand all fees and charges related to your paving job. No one likes finding out later that there are additional charges. A quality contractor will be upfront with you about his or her pricing.
Take control of your investment by asking for a detailed breakdown of the costs. Take a close look at the estimate you are given and compare it to others in your area. If the contractor is exponentially higher than others and unwilling to explain why steer clear of them.
Are you licensed and insured?
You are hiring someone to come on your property and bring in heavy equipment to complete a major project. It is wise to make sure they have taken the appropriate steps to be both legal and have coverage in the event something goes wrong.
No one wants something to happen such as a mishap or emergency but nevertheless, it can. By being licensed your contractor will have proven their competence and insurance protect both you and them. Our advice is to never allow any contractor on your property, of any kind unless they can be vetted by licensure and insurance.
Can I see examples of your work?
Never take a contractor at face value. Instead, ask to see examples of their previous work. A professional contractor should be proud of what they have accomplished.
You can take this a step further if you choose to by asking for references.
A contractor can at least show you images of their work or give you an address or two for you to drive by a location to view their work.
Anyone who is unwilling to meet this request is not worth your investment.
Overall, you want your paving investment to last for as long as possible. There is nothing wrong with interviewing and asking educated questions of your potential paving contractor.
Prime Paving & Sealcoating is a family-owned company that has been in business since 1956. We take pride in having three generations of experience under our belt. We will answer any questions you may have as well as give you a free estimate. Contact us here today!
